San Antonio Academy Celebrates 140 Years and Raises Nearly $580,000 at An Evening Under the Oak

Posted April 2, 2026

On Thursday, March 26, more than 250 members of the San Antonio Academy community, including parents, faculty and staff, alumni, grandparents, and friends, gathered on campus for An Evening Under the Oak. Set beneath the campus’s iconic oak, guests arrived in guayaberas and spring attire for an evening that celebrated The Academy’s 140th school year while supporting its mission. The event was co-chaired by Academy parents Lauren and Mark Biegler ’99 and Corinna and J.B. Richter.

San Antonio Academy, located in the historic Monte Vista neighborhood, is an all-boys independent school serving students from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade. Since 1886, the school has remained committed to its core values of scholarship, leadership, integrity, and brotherhood, with signature programs that include leadership education, outdoor learning, public speaking, and character development.

“Since 1886, The Academy has built a legacy grounded in strong values, character, and a commitment to shaping Texas gentlemen,” said Corinna Richter. “Every dollar raised from this event helps ensure that The Academy continues to provide exceptional opportunities for our boys and for those who will follow.”

The evening opened with a cocktail hour under the oak, where guests enjoyed a mariachi performance, participated in a ribbon pull for prizes, and entered a raffle for the opportunity to win tuition for the 2026–27 school year. The Academy’s signature drink, Chispa del Roble, added to the festive atmosphere.

Dinner followed on Frost Field, where a group of Academy boys offered the evening blessing. Board Chairman Joseph Shields ’05 then recognized the Cadwallader family as members of the Bluebonnet Legacy Society, which honors families with four or more generations of Academy graduates. The four generations of Academy students are Aldes H. Cadwallader, III '42, Randy Cadwallader IV '72, Randy Cadwallader V '98, Walter “Clark” Cadwallader '03, and current SAA students, Max '32 and Jack Cadwallader '34.

“Families like the Altgelts, Frosts, Steves, and Womacks remind us that this is more than a school,” Shields said. “For four generations, the Cadwallader family has placed their trust in SAA as a partner in raising boys of character.”

The program continued with a spirited game of Heads or Tails and a live auction featuring a range of experiences, including a King Ranch nilgai hunt, a Red Rocks Amphitheatre getaway, a South Padre fishing trip with SAA Outdoor Leadership Teacher Leon McNeil, and a father-son safari at Ox Ranch.

A highlight of the evening was the “paddles up” appeal supporting faculty and staff professional development. A tribute video honoring 140 years of Academy educators premiered during the program.

The evening concluded with the drawing for free tuition, an incredible opportunity for one lucky Academy family, and was followed by an afterparty featuring dancing, drinks, and entertainment from Mario Moreno.

Presented by the Mays Family Foundation, the event raised nearly $580,000 in support of San Antonio Academy.

“We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, underwriters, volunteers, and all who joined us,” said Semmes Foundation Head of School Paul M. Quick. “Your presence speaks to a shared commitment to The Academy and its mission.”

A special thank you to Lauren Biegler and Corinna Richter, and the entire An Evening Under the Oak committee, whose leadership, passion, and dedication helped make this event possible.
 

Event photos may be viewed and downloaded from the following Flickr gallery